Prep embracing classification switch

FRUITLAND, N.M.

Up and forward is the best way to describe the volleyball season for the 4A, 3A, and 2A District 1 teams in the area.

There have been some minor but significant changes for those in classifications.

New to 4A District 1 is Navajo Preparatory School. The Lady Eagles have moved up a class and into new territory. They will compete with Shiprock, Thoreau and Wingate.

Navajo Prep head coach Rainy Crisp, who is entering her 10th season as head volleyball coach, said it’s something she and her team are looking forward to.

“I’m really excited about this season … to really show the girls that we can compete at this level,” Crisp said. “Our mental game is going to be the most crucial part all season.”

Navajo Prep returns five experienced players to the lineup: hitters Martinique Larvingo, Diamond Jones, Harlei Hacessa, Gabrielle Noon and defensive specialists Taina Sandoval and Kaylee Wood.

Crisp said with a strong line of hitters, offense could be their strongest area, but having graduated their former libero Jazmin Benally could make things challenging.

“It is going to be a strong point if we can find a good setter,” she said. “We’ve been working with Taina Sandoval with our setting this summer; we just have to find that good setter.”

The Lady Eagles finished their season in the semifinals of the state tournament last year after coming up short to Eunice, 3-0.

Crisp said all of her returning players have state tournament experience and know how to compete at such a level — which also gives them a leg up.
“We didn’t make it as far as we wanted to in the state playoffs. Making it to state, we have that experience pretty much every year,” Crisp said. “This year moving up to that 4A level it’s definitely going to be a lot tougher, we really have to speed up our game.”

Shiprock is looking forward to welcoming their new district rival.

The Lady Chiefs are in a similar boat as Navajo Prep with experience and a strong offense to lead them.

Shiprock head coach Teri Atcitty, who is in her third season leading the program, said she and her team are elated that Navajo Prep joined their district.

“I’m actually excited. They’ve had a pretty good group and just really excited to work toward playing and being really competitive,” she said. “They have a really good coach. The competition; that’s what I’m excited for.”

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